LINCOLN —Nebraska lawmakers are facing a budget impasse over proposed cuts to biomedical research funding at the University of Nebraska Medical Center as they work to close a projected state deficit. Gov. Jim Pillen initially proposed eliminating $16.15 million from the state’s biomedical research fund, later scaling that back to about $12 million, with most of the reductions targeting UNMC.
Supporters of the funding argue the research dollars help attract top scientists and compete for federal grants, including funding from the National Institutes of Health. State Sen. Rob Dover and others say the investment strengthens Nebraska’s research reputation and economic growth.
Members of the Nebraska Legislature remain divided as they balance research funding against other state obligations and tax relief priorities. A smaller, immediate cut advanced in committee, while a larger reduction for the next fiscal year stalled, leaving the issue unresolved as the budget deadline approaches.